Wong claims Federal Govt is saving on air travel costs

THROUGH securing flights online, choosing telephones over airplanes and booking in advance, the Federal Government claims to have slashed $54 million off its air travel bill.

Finance Minister Penny Wong says 2012-2013 half-year results for whole-of-government air travel arrangements reveal travel costs have decreased by 22% - $54 million - compared to the same time last year.

Federal agencies have also decreased air travel by 17%.

The total cost of air travel for the Australian Government was $193 million.

Ms Wong outlined in a statement the savings had been achieved through booking domestic travel further in advance, choosing lower priced but less flexible fares and using online booking tools rather than a travel consultant.

Government agencies are also said to be utilising teleconference services over travel.